The long-awaited Taquero has finally opened its doors, gracing Nottingham with their mouth-watering tacos and Mexican dishes. Our Food Editor Julia Head managed to nab an invite to their launch party…
I haven't frothed for the opening of a new restaurant the way I have for Taquero. I've been painfully watching the updates all year - fourteen months to be exact - and the eventual opening announcement left me filled with joy. Finally! An independent Mexican restaurant in the city.
So, with a grumbling tummy lusting for a taco fix, I set off for the launch party of Bar Iberico and Iberico World Tapas’ sister-restaurant. I'm a huge fan of their Spanish tapas, so if those dishes are anything to go by, I had high hopes for their Mexican restaurant.
Located on Heathcoat Street in lively Hockley, the menu offers a feast of authentic loaded tacos, tequila & mezcal-filled beverages, and all the antojitos (small plates) you can get your hands on. The rustic space, resembling a taquería, has high ceilings, colourful, patterned tiles, exposed brick, and plenty of light and greenery.
The frozen margaritas were flowing all night, and I managed to grab two tacos to try: the 'Baja' with crispy fried market fish, chipotle mayo and curtido (like a pickled cabbage slaw); and the 'Mushroom Carnitas' with portobello mushrooms, avocado, onion and coriander.
The fish was as crispy as ever, and the mushroom carnitas were rich and meaty. All tacos are served with zesty lime to squeeze over and are deliciously authentic with proper corn tortillas. Beef birria taco fans, take note that they've got these bad boys on the menu too. And for the vegans, you'll be sorted with plenty of options.
Good to know: similar to Bar Iberico, they only accept walk-ins and no bookings, so expect queues out of the door. Tacos will set you back between £7-£10 for a pair of two.
6-8 Heathcoat St, Nottingham NG1 3AA
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